Beyond My Quiet Zone

Sunday, May 22, 2016

Since our daughter got married and moved out of the house, weekends are the only time we are able to get together. Glad that the young couple always set aside time for our regular family bonding even only a day on a weekend. Actually, I always prefer cooking dinner for the family. I go marketing early morning and prepare everything on my own. However, I'm not feeling well for weeks now. I easily get tired. Hence, the frequent dinner out!

Last night was no different from the past weekends. After knowing that I am not that well yet, daughter messaged us to just meet them at Mesa in SM Fairview.

Now, allow me to give a short review on this worth praising restaurant.
Mesa Filipino Moderne is the name of this dining place. As far as I know, they have many branches around Metro Manila. We have tried the branch they have in SM North few years back. We haven't gone back coz it's quite far from where we live.

Back here in SM Fairview, we always see and pass by this resto. I don't know why, but we have been ignoring it for long. Hmmn... actually, at the back of my mind I know! This resto is a bit expensive (well, that's as far as my budget is concerned. lol!)! Anyway, this time around, daughter insisted we go here! I was hesitant at first, but we went just the same. Learning later it was her treat. (Hehe.. thanks, bunso!)

Alright.. so we ordered! This.. that... and more! Rice which is usually ordered one cup less was ordered many cups more! Not surprising because food fare is so hearty appetizing, tickling our palates no end. (That is despite the not so generous servings.) Every dish is deliciously done and kept us hooked. So, yes! From the scale of 1 to 5 as 5 the highest, we give it a 5! I won't complain about the price anymore. Would only request for increase on servings! Nonetheless, it's worth it! The place is elegant enough, service is great and best of all, filipino dishes are eĺevated to an upscale level of sophisticated cuisine! Will come back for sure! So that's it! Btw, I'll make it clear tho', this is no paid blogging. But will appreciate any acknowledgement of sort from this establishment. In case and if ever. Haha..

Another wonderful family bonding is done!

"Happiness is not all about what you have, but rather who you have with you!"

Thursday, May 19, 2016

One day in March of the current year, (that was more than a couple of months ago) me and my close friend cum kumare took a break from the daily grinds of a stay at home wife and mom. Right aboard the bus bound for Baguio, I felt de-stressing begun as we exchanged ideas while watching beautiful sceneries along the way.

It was a dazzling sunny mid morning when we reached our destination. With no prior hotel bookings made, we're not sure where we would land. We took a chance on City Light Hotel, just a stone throw away from the Baguio Cathedral. It's my 3rd time at this hotel, the reason maybe why I am quite at ease walking in at its well ventillated, high glass walled, spacious lobby towards the check-in counter.
We were lucky to have booked a room for two. Honestly, I like this place! The front desk staff are courteous. The rooms are clean and spacious enough. Room rates are affordable. Most of all, there's free wifi (even only at the lobby and in the resto). ..and not to forget the hearty Eat All You Can breakfast that goes with the room accomodation.

More than five hours of road travel and numerous stops over is no joke! So the cool surroundings was a refreshing respite that fuelled us for a good start of exploring the city anew.

First order of the day: To have a good lunch. My friend's son mentioned 50's Diner. I've been in Baguio every now and then but haven't tried this dining place ever. As its name implies, the resto's motiff are the framed photos of celebrities as well as mementos of the 50's era. Nice ambiance! Food is good in generous servings while prices are affordable. Will definitely come back next time around.

Mines View Park: The first tourist spot we dropped by. Nothing new since my last visit except for a remarkably large lettered "Welcome" signage and very small lettered "Mines View Park" beneath. A little landscape of colorful flowering plants can be seen on one corner, a considerably good background for photo ops. The actual Mines View Park has nothing new to offer except for unsightly growing numbers of houses seen from the view deck, as well as the mushrooming of souvenir stores surrounding the place. A far cry from the scenic view of pure tall pines hovered over by thick cold fog that existed many years back. Sadly, that calming scene is now gone! But don't fret, that huge St. Bernard dog, who's always available for photo op is still around.

The Mansion: The President's Summer House hasn't changed at all from my childhood years to the present. (Now, you could imagine how old the masion is. Lol!) Visitors can only enter the grandiose gate and take photos of the well manicured facade and the summer house. To add something new to the old mansion photo souvenir, I ran beside the guards and humbly requested for a photo op with them. Fortunately, the officers in uniform gamely agreed. That! ... makes the big difference from my previous visits of The Mansion. Haha..

Across the road is the Wright Park. A quiet promenade with pool lined up with towering pine trees. I would have wanted to walk some more til we reach the 100 steps going down the horses riding circle if only to show it to my friend who hasn't been to Baguio for a long time. But a market bound jeepney passed by and we decided to step aboard that rare public transpo and just proceed to Burnham Park right away. Truth of the matter is, I am not familiar with regards to public transpo in Baguio as we have always visited the place in a private vehicle. So I didn't wanna let go of that chance for an easy ride.

Burnham Park: We alighted at the market and walked our way to the Baguio tourists' favorite place, the Burnham Park. The sun had set and the air was getting a lot cooler. We rested on a bench not far from the boats port as our feet were sore from the long walk. I gazed around and seems like all the people there are worriless. Haha.. or maybe because that's how I feel at that moment... Feeling so relaxed and chilled!

SM Mall for dinner. We couldn't make up our minds where to eat. I saw Mann Hann and we got in. We each ordered our meal which turned out too big for the two of us. We only consumed a little and left behind the untouched. What a waste! As the price is commensurate to the generous servings.

Back to our hotel for a restful night. Our room has no aircon just like all the other rooms of the hotel. Yet, the room temp is more than cold. Mornings in Baguio is always like a feel good sunshiny day! That goes to say, that I haven't been here on the rainy days. Lol!
As I've mentioned earlier, one of the things I like in this hotel is their Eat all you can breakfast. Fried rice, cold cuts, crispy dried fish, omelets cooked the way you want, hot soup, hot or cold drinks, green salads, fresh fruits are just few of my fave amongst food they serve. Tummy filling to the fullest!

Baguio Market: Still the same old busy market since wayback when. The usual last place to go to before leaving for home. As much as we wanted to buy lots of fresh fruits (strawberries included) and veggies as well, we just couldn't do. We were content to what we could carry by hands. Good shepherd peanut brittles, strawberries, lengua de gato and few fresh veggies are just some of the common Baguio pasalubongs we brought home with us. I don't know why. But for me, it doesn't feel like you've been to Baguio when you don't bring home these goodies.

It was difficult to flag down a taxi going back to our hotel. Just got lucky we chanced upon a jeepney which passes through right beside our hotel. We were spared from hand carrying a heavy load of loots from the market.

Baguio Cathedral: The famous Cathedral is located along Session Road. Visiting the church is a sacrifice in itself for weak hearts and asthmatics like me. It would take extra effort to climb the way up to the church especially for an oldie like me. Nonetheless, as we've finished hearing mass, I somehow felt peace and contentment.

After taking an easy lunch in a nearby eatery, we were ready for home. Picked up our bags from the hotel's secured luggage corner then off to the bus terminal bound for Manila. Our swift Baguio escapade is over! Ironically, we were tired but certainly recharged and refreshed! Ready to face life's challenges once again!

Friday, May 6, 2016

A lot of people have always imagined owning a boat that they could sail the high seas with. While you may have given up on your pirate-like voyages in search or lost treasure, that doesn’t mean you don’t still want a boat.

However, buying a boat is something that isn’t as simple as just wanting and purchasing. If you’re a savvy buyer, you’ll also do your research and figure out what’s right for you. Use this guide to help you figure out which used boat is an ideal choice for you, your lifestyle and your budget.

Not all boats are created equal, just like not all boat owners are the same.

What’s Your Budget?

Whether you’re buying for the first time or not, budget is always going to play a role in what you buy unless you’ve got an endless supply of cash. With so many boats on the market though, it can feel hard to know what your budget should be.

Take a hard look at your finances and figure out the balance between the boat you want and the boat you can afford. Buying a boat that’s too expensive for you won’t make you happy. In fact, it will decrease the care free time you get to spend out on the water.

Consider Your Lifestyle

Budget matters, but so does the reason you’re buying the boat. Are you looking for the perfect fishing boat? Do you love taking your young children out on the weekends?

Consider your exact needs and lifestyle when you’re shopping for a boat.

Used or New?

Buying a new boat can be incredibly expensive. A new boat will definitely be in good shape, and you won’t have any service issues off the bat, but you’ll be paying a huge premium up front. That’s why many first-time buyers, and even a lot of experienced boat owners, take on the used market instead.

With your budget in mind, look for a boat that fits your needs and is easy to care for. Maintenance is a major factor on used boats, and you need to know that you can get used or discount boat parts to fit your particular model.

If you can’t get the parts, osr they’re very hard to come by, you’ll enjoy your boat a whole lot less. In some cases, you may have to go months without taking it out on the water at all if you can’t locate the part you need to get it ready.

Tuesday, April 5, 2016

A night and a day spent in Macau is definitely not enough. Nevertheless, we had a great adventure exploring this historic territory of China. Sad as it is, we had to move on to our next destination.

Hello, HongKong!
Upon sunset, we were at the Macau ferry terminal queuing up for a ferry ride to HongKong. 'Twas not a long wait til we embarked, disembarked, passed the immigration area then exited through a shopping mall named Shun Tak Centre. And oh, by the way, I was disappointed when the immigration officer just issued a grocery receipt type of visa approval and not a stamp mark in my passport. I doubt if the print is lasting or if that small receipt won't be lost. Anyway..

We had dinner right at the mall before flagging down a cab to Mongkok. 'Twas a long ride before we reached our hotel late that night A simple hotel this time, but situated in a very nice location, just right next to the Ladies Market Our hotel room wasn't as big like the Sheraton but gives its purpose. Thus, our appreciation for the good accomodation.

Our first day adventure: HongKong Central Park, its vicinity and the Victoria Peak.

We were supposed to take the tram ride to the most sought after HongKong peak but a long queue prevented us from doing so. We took a cab instead which was greatly cheaper and faster (as we had skipped the extensive queue) than the tram ride. So amazed when we reached the top. The Victoria Peak is the place where you can catch the most spectacular sight of HongKong especially at night. I just wished no big crowd hampered our desire for a striking photo op.

Second Hongkong day destination: Ocean Park

This park hasn't changed much since a decade ago. The massive aquarium with sting rays, sharks and many other marine creatures is still the main attraction.

Outside the huge aquarium are displays of various animals and lots of souvenir shops. What we love most are the fun rides, apart from the cable rides. Who said fun rides are only for the young? Could never have enough of them even to this late age! Okay, smirk at my ways, but allow me to enjoy! Btw, our lunch in Ocean Park cost us so much! About Php1.5k/head if converted to peso. We were comparing it to a decent buffet lunch we had in a decent hotel here in the Phils.

Third day exploration: HongKong Disneyland

This is any child's dream place. We are no kids but we absolutely enjoyed every minute of our stroll. Couldn't help but admire all the welcoming live disney characters. The thrilling rides make me young again! We watched the Disney characters' fantastic stage play/ performances and it was truly marvelous! Then the spectacular fireworks on closing time Nothing but overflowing joy and happiness after the day ended in that fantastic park named HongKong Disneyland!

Fourth and last day of HongKong escapade: Relaxing walk around MongKok

We always had a nice walk around here every night of our stay, before retiring to our hotel. This is where we enjoyed best our food trips. From all kinds of noodles, Chinese specialties, Japanese, or steaks, all are delectable and not that pricey. Our tummies were overly spoiled! For the last few hours we had in MongKok, we whiled away the time in Ladies Market. Then I made a wrong move ('cause I had no plan of buying) when I casually asked for the price of a bag I saw hanging in a stall. The next thing I knew, the extremely pushy sales lady won't allow me to leave until I gave in. So from then on, I was scared to ask for prices unless I really want to buy. Lol!

By the afternoon, we were on board the MTR to the airport. Can't help but envy the smooth ride we had in a comfortable public transpo going to the airport. Had our late afternoon meal while waiting for our departure.

It was a tiring 5nights 6days vacation but truly exhilirating! Certainly 'twas another wonderful and a memorable fambam vacation for all of us!

Saturday, April 2, 2016

If you're interested in taking your life to a new level this year, don't wait until December. Instead, get started right now so you can take your life from mediocre to marvelous. Here are just three life optimization strategies that can help you realize the goal:

1. Update Your Home.

One great way to improve the quality of your life is by updating your home. Occupying living space that is highly functional and visually engaging can elevate your mood, and you'll love the private property you come home to. With all of this in mind, make sure that you find a top notch renovation expert who can implement the positive changes necessary to enhance your living space. You can locate contractors in your area and find free quotes today by visiting www.renovationexperts.com.

2. Start Travelling.

Another life optimization technique you can employ to take your world to a new level is travelling. Travelling is a wonderful way to expand your consciousness, enjoy time away from your traditional world of work, and bond with your family or comrades in a powerful new way. Moreover, the Internet makes it easier than ever to travel now that there are online agencies that will coordinate your trip.

3. Get Your Body Moving.

One final life optimization strategy you can deploy to start living fully and freely is to get your body moving. Unfortunately, many people don't get in the recommended daily activity necessary to facilitate optimal mental and physical function. To avoid the pitfalls that result from leading a sedentary life, make sure you get in the habit of exercising regularly. There are a wide range of activities you can engage in, and some of them include:

If you're ready to lead the most productive, positive life possible, be sure to embrace behavioral change. To get something different in life, you have to do something different. Luckily, the strategies outlined above provide you with the information you need to start seeing the results you want. By updating your home, travelling, and getting your body moving, you'll likely find that your life becomes as amazing as you dreamed it would!

Sunday, February 21, 2016

Running a restaurant is an exciting enterprise to undertake. And in many cases, what makes the work exciting is seeing absolutely amazing results in the form of increased conversion, optimized connectivity, and a level of performance that leaves competitors in the dust. If you're ready to take your restaurant into a new dimension of success, it's time to start thinking critically about which strategies you need to deploy to make it happen. Here are three of many success strategies you can use to take your restaurant to a new level:

1. Blog Work.

While many business owners have taken advantage of digital advertising strategies like social media optimization and online reputation management, some have yet to tap into the power of blogging. Don't make this mistake. Blogging can be one of the most interactive forms of online advertising you ever engage in. For example, you can develop Q & A style blog posts that enable your viewers to ask questions about your brand or even learn more about you as a person. This type of enhanced connectivity can accelerate conversion and optimize the relationship-building process to help build your base of lifelong, loyal clients. (It's also important to know that all of the other online advertising strategies available to you can help generate these results as well. With that idea in mind, remember to adopt a holistic approach to the digital marketing process!)

2. Menu Updates.

In addition to using blog work as a means through which to expand your customer base and build your restaurant business, consider the value of updating your menu. Doing so shows your clients that you maintain a cutting edge perspective which involves offering new and/or seasonal dishes. You can purchase drink menu covers, menus, and numerous other menu-related items from online retailers such as Menu Designs.

3. Brand Ambassadors.

One final technique that can really take your restaurant business to a new level of success is building brand ambassadors. These individuals help build your company by sharing information regarding your services and products with the people in their social networks. There are hundreds of ways that you can build brand ambassadors, one of which includes a referral reward program in which customers who get a friend to make a purchase receive 20% off their next meal (or something along these lines).

Conclusion

If you're ready for your restaurant business to step into a new dimension of success, this quick reference guide is for you. Utilize the success strategies outlined above to take your restaurant to the next level now!

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

This is a very late post long saved in my page. Bear with me as I try to rekindle my interest in blogging.

For many years, going back to HongKong had always been in my mind. It's been more than a decade since my first HK trip and not few attempts were made for a return trip. Obviously now, those were not the right time for me.

November 22 of last year was our 35th wedding anniversary. (Yeah, we have aged and gone this far. ...I feel blessed and grateful!) Our usual way of celebrating the occasion is to go on a trip together with the big kiddos. This time, my Hong Kong dream is finally realized. Best of all, it was a 6d/ 5n vacay not only to Hong Kong but Macau included.

We left for Macau via Cebu Pacific on Thursday, November 19. We arrived late in the evening, a delay far beyond our actual schedule due to the APEC event happening during the time. Our room in Sheraton Hotel is just perfect for us. The room has a fantastic view. We regret not having booked for a longer stay. We love the place!

The view from our hotel room.

Sheraton Hotel Facade.

Venetian Hotel was the first on our Macau tour itinerary. 'Twas the magnificent edifice that captures my sight from our hotel room window.. It's only few blocks away from where we're billeted so we zestfully walked from Sheraton to Venetian. The hotel/mall complex of Venetian is truly impressive. I'm amazed with its structural design especially on the area where it looks like we are strolling under a clear blue sky. It's where one can take a relaxing gondola ride in the Venice Canal replica.

The Venetian complex also houses most of the well known high fashion designers and brands. Unfortunately we had no time for them! .. Or to state it clearer, we had no budget for them. That's it! Lol! Our real target there was the food court area. There are lots of food outlets but not much difficulty to find what I want. I love most of what I've seen. I truly love Chinese food, that's why! My first pick was none other than my fave, the Peking Duck and a few more. Prices of food I would say was a bit expensive if converted to Philippine peso but that's how it is! Travel and food tripping always come side by side. After we've filled up, we took a peek of the Casino and daughter tried the slots machine. I guess she truly enjoyed playing but unluckily, she won nothing but a piece of paper with a 1$ value to be claimed. She had fun, anyway! Haha..

At the Venetian Hotel.

My favorite Peking Duck.

Macau Tower was next on our itinerary. I am acrophobic but I know I can always try climbing up however high a structure is. I've once survived walking on the edge of a 38th floor high in extreme adventure in Cebu. So I know, it would be easier for me this time. Besides, we were only to take a view from the top and not go on a bungee jumping from the 233 meter high tower. Well, I think, even if I am brave enough to take a jump, I am definitely not that brave enough to spend an arm and a leg for few seconds of thrilling extreme adventure experience. If my memory serves me right, the cost is almost 2K Macau $. Just wish I'm rich! Lol!

A pose at the Tower.

Hubby: Watching the view or the viewers?

A peek down under of the Macau Tower.

Gathering all my courage to step on that clear glass flooring.

Macau Tower as mentioned is 233 meter high tower overlooking 360 degree view of Macau vicinity. The view deck has a glass flooring where you can clearly see the roads and visually tiny automobiles down under. On that spot, I realized, I haven't yet overcome my phobia. I just couldn't control my terrified emotion. Ironically though, I still love the experience.

Next on the day's itinerary is the Ruins of St. Paul's Cathedral. Reaching the famous tourist spot wasn't easy for us. Our guide, (daughter and her husband, as they have already visited the place a number of times before) could not quickly remember the road that leads to the ruins. We trekked the wide and narrow roads of Macau as well as the long hidden alleys in between. Passed by the crowded stores of Chinese delicatessens and stopped by at one that attracts our appetite. No idea how it is called, but we call it "tusok-tusok". And the food is really good! Maybe with the help of "tusok-tusok" goodness, we found our way to the Ruins. Lol! However, we didn't expect it to be as crowded. Every steps are filled with people. Fambam didn't want to brushed side by side with the crowd. I climbed up the many steps up to the overly photographed Macau icon if only to satisfy myself that I finally made it there. Then tried to take a decent photo despite the crowd. Nonetheless, it was great to witness the famous St. Paul's Ruins of Macau. One impressive historical landmark that ultimately has the actual picture which I only used to imagine.

Fambam amongst the crowd.

Hubby with his yummy "tusok-tusok".

The store where we bought the yummy food.

Customers patiently wait for their turn.

Every street is crowded.

Every step is filled with people.

My decent shot of the Ruins. Lol!

With that folks, our "One Day Macau Tour" ends. Next would be the HongKong episode. Thank you for your time.